#construction debris conflict

[townpostin]

Neighbor Dispute Erupts into Violence in Jamshedpur's Mango Area

Three seriously injured in fierce fight over construction debris in Daigutu Dhobi Line A violent altercation between neighbors in Jamshedpur’s Mango area leaves three men seriously wounded. JAMSHEDPUR – A dispute over construction debris escalated into a violent confrontation in Daigutu Dhobi Line, Mango police station area, resulting in three men sustaining serious injuries. The incident…

[moonstruckme]

Can you do poly!marauders where reader has kinda a shitty family? Like, where their family belittles them and insults them and gets mad over them existing so whe reader is back at hogwarts the next year she's as fragile as a china shop uncomfortablely close to a bull farm??

Only do it if your comfortable with it <3

Make sure to take care of yourself and remeber you are loved <3 <3

Thanks for requesting, love you and hope you're taking care of yourself as well <3

cw: hints at emotional abuse

poly!marauders x fem!reader ♡ 1.3k words

You’re quiet, all of a sudden. The distance over the last few months had been rough for all of you, gone to your separate homes for the summer, but Remus is beginning to suspect it was most difficult for you; you can’t seem to find your way back to them. It’s like you’ve constructed a shell around yourself over the short three months you’ve been apart, and none of James’ loving, Sirius’ teasing, or Remus’ offerings of a study companion have proved successful in drawing you back out. 

He’s sure you think you’re being subtle. You certainly haven’t addressed your boyfriends’ worries, either missing or ignoring the looks they send each other when you don’t jump in on a joke they’re doing or answer in a quiet, meek voice when they ask you a question. It’s as if you’re afraid of being heard, of being noticed at all. 

Remus doesn’t like it one bit. 

Neither do the others, of course, and he and James have had to talk Sirius down from confronting you about it multiple times already in the week since you’ve been back. You seem…fragile, somehow, and Remus doesn’t think pushing you will get the results they all want. James seems to think you’ll come back to them on your own if they give you time, and Remus isn’t so sure, but it’s the plan he’s rolling with for now. 

Still, he doesn’t think it’s out of line to intervene when he catches you carrying a stack of books that has to be half your weight. Last year, he’s positive you would have asked for help, but now you only grunt quietly as the stack wobbles above your head. 

“Let me take some of those for you,” Remus offers, already standing, and you flinch as if your distracting him from his homework is a punishable offense. The stack teeters dangerously with your sudden movement. 

“That’s okay,” you squeak, leaning back a bit in an attempt to get your tower of books under control. You look timid, wide-eyed like a child caught with their hand in the cookie jar, afraid of getting in trouble. “You can sit back down, I’ve—” You don’t even get the chance to finish your excuse before the books topple, scattering about. Remus flinches internally when some fall down on your head, and another sends an empty glass on the edge of the coffee table crashing to the ground. 

You cover your mouth with your hand, staring in silent horror at the mess around you. 

James and Sirius, playing cards on the other side of the coffee table, look up at the commotion. 

“Shit,” Sirius says (a rather eloquent sum-up in Remus’ opinion). “Are you okay?”

“I’m so sorry,” you breathe, crouching and beginning to gather the broken glass in your hands.  “I’m so sorry, I can’t believe I did that.” 

“Don’t—be careful,” Remus starts to say, but then you lose your balance, stepping backwards just slightly and letting out a tiny hiss. 

Remus stands, but James gets to you first, careful to keep away from the broken glass himself as he lifts you clear of the debris and deposits you onto the couch. 

“I’m sorry,” you say again, impossibly quiet. You’re looking between your boyfriends as if unsure what they want you to do. 

“Angel, it’s okay,” James insists, coming to sit down in front of you. “We’ll clean it up in a bit, don’t worry. Did you hurt yourself?”

You look down at your foot, sucking your bottom lip into your mouth.

“A little,” you admit. “Sorry.” 

“Stop that,” Remus says sternly. “It was a mistake. We only care that you’re hurt.” 

You look conflicted, and Remus can practically see your next apology forming on your tongue, but before you can utter it, James asks gently, “Can I have a look, sweetheart?”

You blink at him, nodding hesitantly. James is careful as he takes your ankle in his hand, lifting your foot in front of his face. His expression clears a little.

“Okay, it’s just a little piece,” he says, adjusting his hold before picking out a tiny bit of glass and flicking it into the pile with the rest. “There you go.” 

You nod your thanks, curling your foot underneath you. You’re being quiet as a rabbit, Remus thinks, all tense and wary but afraid to make a single sound. Whether you notice or not, the unease in the room grows with every second of your silence. 

Finally, it appears Sirius can’t be held at bay any longer. 

“Alright,” he says, more frustration in his tone than Remus thinks is really a good idea, “what’s going on with you?”

You look surprised. “Me?”

“Yes, you. You’ve been acting like someone’s going to shout at you ever since we got back this year.” Sirius lowers his voice, eyebrows scrunching together just slightly. “It was being at home, wasn’t it? Something happened.” 

You flush, and Remus feels suddenly like this is a conversation he has no right to be in. Of course Sirius would be the one to pick up on it if  your family was what was making you act this way. No wonder he’d been so insistent they needed to get to the bottom of it. That’s something he can understand, whereas Remus and James never could. 

“Nothing happened,” you say, and Sirius narrows his eyes like he doesn’t believe you. “I just…okay, don’t be mad.” 

“No one is going to be mad at you, sweetheart,” Remus says, feeling like his heart is working its way up his throat with the words. “We’re just…you’ve seemed so different, and it’s scaring us a little bit. We only want to know what we can do to help.” 

You look hesitant. James reaches forward, taking your hand in both of his and rubbing at it with his thumbs. You nod, seeming a bit more confident now, and say, “There’s nothing you can really do. I just need some time.” 

James nods back, looking at you with brown eyes big and open and understanding. Remus often wishes he could convey even half James’ earnestness, but he doesn’t know anyone with the same capacity for warmth. “Time for what, darling?”

You nibble on your lower lip, and Remus has to repress the urge to rescue it from between your teeth. “Well, we didn’t really get close until a couple months into fall term last year, right?”

“Right,” James agrees. 

“So…I wouldn’t expect you to know, but it always sort of takes me a bit to…adjust back to school life.” 

Sirius still looks like he wants to fight something, but he’s more careful to keep his anger out of his voice now. “Why’s that?”

You shrug. “You’re not wrong. My family isn’t always as…patient with me as you guys are. They’re not awful, it’s just, I get into a habit of being quieter around them.” Remus’ heart feels like lead in his chest. “It takes me a while to get out of the habit once I get back.” 

“Honey,” James murmurs, not looking much better than Remus feels. “I’m sorry.” 

You give him a little smile, shifting uncomfortably. “You don’t need to act like it’s such a tragedy,” you joke. “I’ll get over it soon.” 

James looks distressed, but Remus cuts in. “I’m sorry you don’t feel like you can be yourself at home, lovely girl,” he says in what he hopes is a light but soothing tone, unsure what you need right now but gathering from your demeanor that it’s not their pity. He slides his arm around your back to tug you closer to him. “Is there anything we can do to help?”

You hum contentedly, leaning against his side. “Not really,” you reply. “You guys are too good to me, it’s hard to be quiet around you for long.” 

“Good,” Sirius says firmly, “because we don’t want you to. Want to go scream off the astronomy tower, sweet thing? Maybe that’ll help loosen you up.” 

“Actually, I’d really like to clean up my mess before someone comes down here and steps on it,” you admit. “But maybe we can try your yelling thing tomorrow.”

[problematicbots]

Cut/ Deleted Winged Sentinel au Snippets/ ideas that never got in

-Originally Alpha Trion and Longarms were just going to get the info on Acha Seven off screen after they left Elita's memorial until I got the whole journal idea

- a comedic scene where Sentinel during his first flight accidentally crashed in the middle of two Cybertronians having dinner together and those Cybertronians reacting to this to crash by shouting in a British accent "how dear you sir!" Before dumpling tea onto his helm. This was funny but I didn't really know where to put it.

-Originally Sentinel was going to get suspended from duty first before finding out about Jazz registration but I decided to shift it around a bit. Also Originally Jazz was just going to leave the registration note on Sentinel's desk without directly facing SP at all. this is actually an idea that I decide reused for the bad ending with the Jetfire and Jetstorm finding out about the note instead of Sentinel

-Sentinel taking Jetfire and Jetstorm to a parade/fair where Sentinel teach them to win at scam games, winning them prizes and at one point the twins running into the carrier that left them behind, getting retraumatized and Sentinel confronting her. I decided not to do this since the unnamed carrier of twins would probably not be important to the plot at all after that point

-Sentinel and Jazz actually going to Kaon to collect the information on jets only to find that prison has been turned into a ghost/train tour like ride and then being very confused about it.

-On a similar note Sentinel actually digging/finding debris of old flight equipment by using a whole ass construction team to get more while Jazz is like:..."what are you doing. " This would be funny but would take away bonding time with the twins and not forced on Jazz's inter conflict that much. Basically the research phase was going to be a full snippet whether It Sentinel going to either Kaon or the archives either by himself or with Jazz

-Kup was originally going to be the mentor the twins get reassigned with him basically being a mirror of what Sentinel was before he bonded with the twins and him hating it but I thoughted Alpha Trion would be more appropriate since he was actually there from the start.

-Blurr was just going to keep Alpha Trion hold down while Sentinel and the twins took the samples to Perceptor's lab but I thought them working together to throw Alpha Trion into the garbage chute that Sentinel and Blurr just escaped from was ten times funnier.

-Ultra Magnus being a dick not giving Sentinel his job back despite everything he went through so literally on the elite guard ever quit their job since they lose respect for the commander and basically Jazz, Blurr, Sentinel and twins were able to find happiness outside of the Elite guard. But I thought Sentinel getting his job back and him soaring into the sky together with the twins was a way better ending for the good ending .

[novankenn]

Needless ... Sacrifice

(This is dark... you've been warned.)

Joan's tears had dried by the time she had activated the binding systems of the small robotics laboratory owned by her family. Stripping away her armor and civilian clothing she slipped into the thin linen hooded robe. She knew she had limited time. Her family would arrive soon to stop her. She had no doubt about that.

Closing her eyes she took a deep and slow breath. Pyrrha had sent her away, fearing for her life. Fearing that her lack of combat skill would hinder her battle with that... woman. It broke Joan's heart, which was further torn asunder as she knew Pyrrha was scaling that fucking tower to face her death.

Joan had made a desperate plea to Weiss and Ruby. An attempt she hoped would save the woman she loved, but fear was was a stronger motivator. Joan feared her plea for aide had come to late... she feared Pyrrha was already dead. It was her shame to not be strong enough to stand beside her. Her sin to be judged wanting...

Looking up from under the white linen hood she allowed her sorrowful eyes drift over the technological nightmare standing before her. No one in her family understood where the construct came from, or why they had access to it. It had just always been. Though it was through study and testing that her family had made massive advancements in medical prosthetics.

Joan knew the mechanical horror was not a medical aide. It was easy to discern that its true purpose was combat. It was that purpose she was going to reinstate.

Stepping onto the platform before what had always been assumed as the pilot bay, she took another breath, and turned. A sharp crack of glass being struck alerted her to the arrival of those of her family that could be spared from the conflict. She didn't look towards them even as the sound of breaking glass filled the room.

Stepping backwards as she stretched her arms out to her sides, she closed her eyes... a single final tear rolling down her cheek.

"JOAN!!!!!!"

It was her mother's voice. Filled with hurt, fear and desperation. Joan allowed that sound bury itself deep inside. Sealing it in her heart just as the pain overwhelmed her.

/==/

Pyrrha stared on in abject horror as Ruby supported her. her emerald eyes gliding over the battlefield that Beacon's grounds had become. Pyrrha knew she had faced her death upon the top of Beacon's tower, and she was eternally grateful that Ruby had reached her in time to prevent Cinder from landing that final finishing strike.

But now, the joy of being alive. The hope of seeing Joan, the woman who owned her heart and soul was rent and torn. The battle had turned into a rout. The rogue members of the White Fang and their allies had been driven back. The only fighting that remained was with the roaming grimm.

That was not however what was ripping Pyrrha's very being apart. She watched as through smoldering debris as mechanical monstrosity prowled, unleashing gouts of searing flames upon any grimm it encountered, or dug in groups of White Fang.

The howls and screams of agony rising from it's victims sent shivers up her spine, but what was worse. What was heart-rending was the cries and screams of the figure securely fastened to the front of the construct.

"Joan?" Pyrrha wept and sobbed. "Joan... what have you... done?"

[beardedmrbean]

"Lithuania has fortified another bridge over the Nemunas River on the route from the Kaliningrad," announced the country's Ministry of Defense. "Fortifications will be supported by firepower, in case it’s needed, to stop and destroy the enemy," it added.

The Lithuanians placed what are commonly known as dragon's teeth on the bridge over the Neman River. These are reinforced concrete blocks shaped like truncated pyramids, designed to stop enemy tanks if necessary.

Some bridges may be demolished

The Lithuanian Ministry of Defense stated in a communiqué published on the X service that the construction of fortifications is "proceeding according to plan."

"Fortifications are progressing as planned, with some bridges set to be demolished. Fortifications will be supported by firepower, in case it’s needed, to stop and destroy the enemy," it added.

Prepared for war

Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and Poland are cooperating better to secure the eastern border of the EU and NATO; efforts are being made to secure additional funding from the EU and, from NATO, the possibility of immediate strengthening of air defense, as announced at the end of September by Latvia's Minister of Defense, Andris Spruds.

Spruds acknowledged the need to be ready for conflict and vigilant even during times of peace. He highlighted that the risk to civilians comes not only from drones in flight but also from debris or objects that fall from them. Drawing from Ukraine’s experiences, he stressed this point, according to LTV television.

Recently, physical security measures have been undertaken in the east of the four countries bordering Russia and Belarus as part of the Baltic Defense Line project. In Lithuania, the focus is on fortifying critical infrastructure, such as bridges.

In Latvia, concrete and reinforced concrete anti-tank elements known as "dragon's teeth," spiked hedgehogs, or stone blocks are being installed along the border sections. Bunkers are being constructed in Estonia, and several thousand additional soldiers have been deployed to the border with Belarus in Poland, according to the Latvian broadcaster.

[30horsechariot]

Minoa, home of the Minoan Federated States, is at war. The ivory vessels of the Gloriana Fleet hunt in packs across orbit, beckoned ever further into conflict by the head of their warhost, the machine god “Glory.” Hangar bays disgorge wings of mobile frames and sortie amongst ruined colonies whilst mechanized warfare drives the battlelines on the planet below. The Nascent Night ends and a new epoch begins. Minoa is at war.

A). The Aegean Waygate. In a previous era, extrasolar communities were connected via a series of superstructures known as waygates. These colony sized installations were fed space-faring vessels into their yawning mouths, snapping them to other gates with night-instantaneous transmission to ferry supplies, people, and information across the galaxy. This era of connection ended suddenly and without warning, as the waygate network collapsed and threw many systems into disarray and isolation. This period of history became known as the Nascent Night, for up until that point humanity had found strength within their relationships with each other. When the Nascent Night came, once more we were reminded that the scariest thing about the dark is not what could be lurking just beyond your vision, but that we would have to face whatever that specter is well and truly alone. 

B). The Gloriana Fleet. The Nascent Night ended with a horrible display of violence, as the Aegean Gate was reopened and through its maw the gleaming white warhost of the Gloriana Empire arrived. They came with weapons and banners, proclaiming without pause their mission to reclaim all which they thought was theirs, to connect humanity once more under their crimson laurels. Calls for liberation and unification flood their airwaves, stylizing themselves as the dawn of a new era of prosperity. Intelligence shows the colossal machine at the heart of their fleet goes by the name “Glory”, and serves as both acting commander and eidolon for the imperial force. Reports indicate that this is not the first theater Glory has served in, and that it does not expect Minoa to be its last. 

C). The Lunar Shore. What is now a bank of rubble spread across the north of Minoan space had at one point in time been the lunar companion of the planet, titled Briar. It was during the Nascent Night that Briar was ruined, orbital warring and weapons of mass destruction reducing the once proud satellite to a loose body of debris. Now, the Lunar Shore is home to people who do not want to be found, pirate groups, separatist movements and stranger folk still inhabit this fractured land, constructing platforms and asteroid bases within the dense moonrock. Larger ships struggle to navigate the shore safely, and so it has become a hotbed for skirmishes and smaller conflicts peppered within its borders. 

D). Minoa, home of the Minoan Federated States. The Nascent Night brought with it an acute power vacuum, followed by conflict between the various nations of Minoa and her colonies. Soon after the moon was destroyed, the dominant power and successor government of the Minoan Federated States was born. Finally united under one banner, the MFS led the recovery of Minoa and reestablished a sense of order. The MFS made Minoa what it is today, but state histories fail to mention the many bodies that it burned in the struggle to unify. A temperate and diverse planet, Minoa’s ecology appeals to both the home and away teams and it is unclear how far each side is willing to go to keep it. 

E). The Colonies. Part of the settling of Minoa from so long ago was an institution of space colonies, oblong superstructures that operate as micronations or states in their own right. A significant part of the MFS unification war was incorporating the colonies as members within the Federation, not just allied sovereign entities. In the modern age enough time has passed that anti-colony and anti-planet sentiments have cooled, but it is impossible to ignore the shattered remains of colonies that were lost during that conflict, twisted and burnt metal floating just on the edge of their space.

[basicsofislam]

ISLAM 101: ALMS AND CHARITY: VIRTUES OF ZAKAT: Part 1

WHAT DOES ZAKAT MEAN?

Zakat, literally, holds numerous meanings: to profit, to purify, to increase, to be worthy, nice, mercy, truth, blessing, to extol and to exonerate are just to mention a few. All of these abundant meanings can be sighted in the Qur’an and hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, Peace Be Upon Him).

For instance, in the following verses, “He has indeed prospered who purifies it (the self)” and “Prosperous indeed are those who purify themselves,” zakat means to purify and to exonerate, while it is also used to denote prosperity in another verse: “A compassion from Our presence, and prosperity.” Additionally, it can refer to purity itself “…and let him see what food is purest there.”

Moreover in many verses, zakat denotes purification, as corroborated by a hadith that uses the same word in describing the sanitization of soil. Consider these references: “…that is more virtuous for you, and purer”, “…for that is purer for you,” “…and let him see what food is purest there,”  “He said ‘I am only a Messenger of your Lord to announce to you the gift of a pure son,’” “And Moses said: ‘Have you slain a pure soul though he had killed nobody?’” 

WHAT IS TO BE GENERALLY UNDERSTOOD BY ZAKAT IN ISLAM?

In Islamic terminology, zakat is the process where a certain amount of property or money is collected from those who are sufficiently endowed and then given to a needy group of people, with donors, recipients, and the proportion of required donations being clearly specified in both the Qur’an and Sunna. Taking this definition into account, zakat (the prescribed purifying alms) is simply spending what has been bestowed by God, in the amount and places designated by Him, for the sole purpose of physical and spiritual purification.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ZAKAT ON SOCIETY? (Part 1)

Zakat, with its innumerable facets, is a bond between members of society, one wherein collective harmony is dependent on individual harmony. Zakat explicitly creates a virtuous setting that eliminates various social problems by establishing a harmonious atmosphere for both the rich and the poor. In a nutshell, zakat forestalls, reduces, or eliminates social conflicts, strengthens the growth of the middle class, and obviates all of the greatest social diseases pertaining to financial issues, especially interest and money-hoarding.

ZAKAT REDUCES CLASS STRUGGLES

The establishment and maintenance of social solidarity are maximized when the gap between social classes is kept at a minimum and the voids likely to cause social conflicts are filled. In other terms, relations between the rich and the poor must not deteriorate if anarchy is to be avoided. Undoubtedly, the most important power that upholds these crucial relations between the rich and the poor is zakat and other principles of assistance. In societies where zakat ceases to exist, the precipice between the rich and the poor widens to the effect where abhorrence and hatred replace love and appreciation for the poor, and concomitantly, disdain and scorn replace compassion and charity for the rich.

Leaves of history attest to the gradual deterioration of civilizations that have opted to divide themselves into conflicting classes. Their initial happiness, a fruit of uncompromising discipline, has always been, more or less, short-lived, a prelude to their swift exit from the world stage, under the debris of their own civilization, as they have paid the ultimate price for their social injustices.

By pronouncing, “Zakat is the bridge of Islam”, the Noble Messenger amplified the importance of zakat in abolishing economic gaps between members of society. Zakat is a bridge used for passing over economic strife and when the whole community makes use of this bridge, class conflicts have the potential to become part of history. This bridge also constructs a stable middle class through which increasingly more recipients of zakat can become its donors and a possible clash between the rich and the poor is prevented.

ZAKAT STRENGTHENS THE MIDDLE CLASS

By the prevention of the polarization of society, Islam envisages the construction of a strong middle class.  In providing an opportunity for the unemployed to embark on new business ventures, zakat gains them back into society, stronger than ever, instead of deserting them to become burdens of the community. The strengthening of the middle class in Islam is not encouraged just through zakat and sadaqa; in actuality, there are more precepts pertaining to this issue. For instance, when dividing booty or the spoils of war among members of society, God declares:

That which God gives as spoil to His Messenger from the people of the townships, it is for God and His Messenger (for the State) and for the near of kin, orphans, the needy and the wayfarer so it will not become the property of the rich among you. (Hashr 59:7)

The circulation of capital solely in the hands of the rich inevitably leads to them becoming richer at the expense of the poor, who then become even more stricken. In actual fact, wealth has been created for the benefit of the whole of humanity, indiscriminately. In societies where individuals are deprived and usurped of the wealth bestowed by God, the existence of social classes is tolerated and the scorn of the rich towards the poor is sustained, riches never bring true happiness; on the contrary, financial resource easily becomes a profound source of conflict, even within families and close-knit groups. Additionally, in such societies, the poor remain in perennial anxiety in regards to attaining their sustenance whereas the rich foster similar anxiety pertaining to the security of their wealth. The resort to dangerous alternatives can thus evolve into an option for the poor, a plight we have been so used to witnessing around the world. In contrast, zakat eliminates all of the illegitimate options, graciously providing the poor with an ethical way out of their strife—exhaling into the community a fresh breath of life.

ZAKAT CURES SOCIAL DISEASES

The prime hindrance of the formation of a harmonious atmosphere within societies is the existence of social classes based on wealth. It is self-evident that it is an impossibility for the poor to nurture the love for the rich in a society where they are turned a blind eye on. As prevalent experience has shown, such a society is destined to become a hotbed for social conflict. The following verse corroborates this proposition:

Spend generously for the cause of God, and do not cast yourselves into destruction by your own hands. And know that God loves the doers of good. (Baqara 2:195)

The embracement of self-centeredness, at the expense of abandoning an altruistic life with social awareness, would be tantamount to trotting dangerously, as brilliantly illustrated by the Qur’an. Throwing one’s self into danger is due to deserting infaq or spending in the way of God and its grave outcomes that immediately c o me to mind, including anarchy, becoming the dominant force over a society that further leads to inextricable national and international complications. This dissipative demeanor of the aristocratic class,  indubitably, remains the prime cause underlying anarchy. It is this shockingly irresponsible attitude of the rich,  who squander astronomical amounts of money to attain luxuries in an attempt to satiate their interminable carnal desires, which causes the insurgence of crude souls, leading to anarchy and eventually turning the social welfare system upside down.

Wasteful displays as such will, no doubt, whet the appetite of the poor, inculcating in them an insurmountable feeling of hatred for the rich and perhaps, an excuse to usurp their property upon the first chance given. Obstinately abiding by the notion that enormous financial gaps between individuals do not cause an implicit or explicit upheaval is simply ignoring the realities of life.

The inveterate enmity the poor have for the rich, through zakat, providentially evolves into love and respect, patching up the wounds initially caused by greed and selfishness.

By responding to hate with love, the rich will attain immense respect, and consequently, the bond of fraternity throughout society will be reinforced. Those who do not spend in the way of God impede the rights of others by depriving them of what is theirs and simultaneously, wrong themselves by evading an obligation. God, indeed, dislikes wrongdoers and following such a line of action would ultimately attract the dislike of the Creator.

“Indeed God does not wrong humankind in any way; but humankind wrong themselves” (Yunus 10:44) underlines how human’s worst enemy is, ironically, himself. Those who indulge in “self-oppression” by avoiding zakat will suffer an assault of another form of oppression. “The oppressor is the sword of God; taken revenge with and then taken revenge of” is a vital principle of social life. Thus the wealthy that are in denial of their duty with regards to alms are prone to suffering onslaughts from the poor as immediate punishment for their ignorance. The poor, given they partake in such an upheaval, are also punished in turn, as the realization of the celestial cycle enunciated by the Prophet of God. God may delay a punishment, but when His verdict is decreed, there is no turning back.

Those who furtively stockpile wealth and withhold it in fear of zakat are bound to receive an uncalculated slap in the face as their insatiable greed generates unavoidable calamities from their wealth.

By fixing the problem before it spreads, zakat forestalls the potential complications of society, establishing a firm social structure. Looking from this perspective, many current issues could be avoided if zakat is effectively utilized.

ZAKAT LIBERATES SOCIETY FROM INTEREST

Interest has come to be an essential method of exploitation for the happy minority in their quest for greater wealth. While attempting to establish a society where benevolence reigns, it is inevitable that an effective antidote is applied to extirpate interest, to its very last residue, to prevent the upsurge of many social predicaments.

God, the Almighty, has explicitly forbidden all types and forms of interest, the chief catalyst in causing the rich to become richer and the poor to become poorer—repudiating the common notion that interest increases wealth. The Qur’an, which had aimed to put end to the widespread use of interest and liberate the believers from its fetters, again, makes use of the principle of gradualness, which was discussed earlier:

That which you give in usury in order that it may increase on people’s property has no increase with God; but that which you give in charity, seeking God’s countenance, has a manifold increase. (Rum 30:39)

Though on the surface, wealth may seem to increase with interest, in actual fact, it fails to deliver prosperity which is, instead, promptly taken away by the Creator and replaced with gradual deterioration. Riba, the Arabic term for an interest, holds various meanings, almost all of which are negative, like destruction and devastation; and it also refers to something that carries with itself misfortune. A sharp comparison is made above between, on the one hand, riba or interest that bestows the wealth perennial depreciation and, on the other, sadaqa, the prime inviter of prosperity. What’s important is the actual prosperity bestowed by God on the riches, not the ostensible increase. Seeing that God has given this assurance, it is unthinkable for Him not to realize this assurance, and He will perpetually shower prosperity on wealth out of which sadaqa is given, as confirmed by a copious amount of verifications. Abandoning all forms of interest and embracing sadaqa is a key step towards realizing social justice.

Interest contributes to an apparent increase in wealth but this increase is nothing but a veil put over its eventual depreciation. The above verse, through comparison, implicitly alludes to h o w sadaqa generates a prosperous economy for society, as opposed to the overall deterioration caused by interest, in the purest sense of the word.

The Qur’an, by introducing the prohibition on interest, slowly prepared the early Muslim society for the  total acceptance  of zakat, by articulating how  the Jews, due to partaking in forbidden interest, were deprived of many things which were otherwise previously permissible:

Because of the wrong-doings of the Jews, We made unlawful for them certain good things which were otherwise lawful; and because they hindered many from God’s way, and of their taking usury when they were forbidden from it, and of their devouring people’s wealth by wrongful means. (Nisa 4:160-1)

O you who believe! Do not live on usury, multiplying your wealth many times over (as compound interest). Have fear of God, that perhaps you may be successful. (Al Imran 3:130)

This last revelation proved to be an unambiguous declaration, comprising serious threats for indulgers in interest:

Those who swallow usury shall rise up (from their graves) before God like the men whom Satan has bewitched and maddened by (his) touch, for they assert that usury is just like trading, although God has permitted trade and forbidden usury. He that receives an admonition from his Lord and mends his way may keep what he has already earned; his affair will be determined by God. But those that return (to usury) will be the rightful owners of the Fire. They will abide there forever. God blights usury and makes almsgiving fruitful; He does not love the impious and the guilty. Those that believe and do good works, and establish salat and pay zakat will be rewarded by their Lord; and no fear shall come upon them, neither shall they grieve. O you who believe! Have fear of God, and give up what is still due to you from usury, if you are true believers. And if you do not, then be warned of war (against you) by God and His Messenger. If you repent you may retain your principal (without interest). Wrong not, and you shall be not wronged. And if the debtor is in straitened circumstances, then grant him a postponement until a (time of) ease; but if you remit the debt as almsgiving it will be better for you if you did but know. (Baqara 2:275-80)

As stated above, God and His Messenger deem interest-oriented transactions as a reason to wage war, which in effect, means an exile from Divine Mercy for the rebellious perpetrators. By retorting, “Shall I bow to him (Adam) whom You have made of clay?” (Isra 17:61), Satan had become the first rebel through his denouncing the Divine Command. Such a  seditious demeanor, therefore, incommensurable with that of Satan’s who ultimately was branded with the curse and expelled from the Eternal Compassion of God.

[cdmagic1408]

"Mighty Mom" Detail Scout! 2.0!!! 🔎 ✨ 2️⃣

~ Advent Calendar Edition ~

* Click here for the first edition post! *

On December 22nd, Onward's Mighty Mom was found in the 2022 Disney Advent Calendar. That same day, I released a YouTube video where I read the story aloud! 📖

From flipping through it the first time last month to putting that video together, I realized...this version of Mighty Mom has EVEN MORE details! ✨ 🔍

So now I present to you: the Mighty Mom detail scout...THE SEQUEL!!

~

First things first, there’s the FRONT COVER...

May I just say it’s EPIC! Very awesome looking! 🤩

We got all three Lightfoots together! Lookin badass and ready to handle anything that comes their way! Barley lighting the path with his torch, Laurel gripping her battle ax in her amazing protective armor, and Ian clutching his staff with the Danger Detection Spell in use!

And let's not forget the dreaded Giant Spider playing (as TV Tropes calls it...) the evil overlooker in the background!

Basically, it screams quest and adventure! I LOVE IT!! ✨✨✨

~

Oh! And a BACK COVER with a PLOT TEASER!

Yep, I'd say that sums it up pretty well 😎

~

Now onto the story itself...let us start at the very end to mix things up, shall we?

The thing about the ending is...it's slightly different! Compared to the first version, which ended on the more hopeful note of oh..."let's plan our next adventure!" this version ends a bit more comically!

It's definitely implied Ian and Barley are much more scared of spiders now after being trapped by a giant one, but Laurel on the other hand has conquered her fear! Which is good cause that was like her internal conflict and everything... 😄

But...yeah...don't think this is the only time you're gonna face a giant spider, boys... (*cough* *cough* IYTM chapter 29 😉)

~

I also couldn't help but notice that Barley's love for quests and the days of yore is expanded upon here... 😏

...and there...

Now I definitely get why Barley looks so hyped when he sees that minotaur security guard...and why Ian looks a little worried...

my point? the authenticity is GOLD ❤️‍🔥

~

We've even got an expanded illustration of the mall's play area!

and boy is there a detail or two to spot on this page...

I don't know if it's just me, but that loooooooong green slide on the left looks suspiciously like Blazey... 👀 other than being long and green, it's definitely the tongue slide and the happy wild-eyed expression that sells it 🤪

Oh! and at the top of the small ball pit next to that satyr kid riding the dragon...young Ian, is that you? 😂

And speaking of that satyr kid, it's the very same kid Barley plays with in the bigger ball pit on the next page! (yes, I'm putting that picture in too cause I know how much you love Barley with kids @itsme-star) and now that I'm really looking at it, I'm thinking he wanted to give that little kid another fun ride after swinging on that dragon and if that's the case...awwwwww that's so sweet 🥺

Lastly, I get the feeling that that spider jungle gym was meant to warn our favorite elves of the dangers below...but considering how modern and harmless it looks, I don't blame em for not taking that into consideration lol

~

This was the first illustration that gave me the impression that there was more to this story than what we saw back in April...

I'll say the debris falling definitely adds urgency to the situation of the tavern needs to fixed and put back to its former glory 😅

But also...

The three of them high-fiving is sooooooo adorable! I already thought they looked great in those construction hats and goggles, but this is serotonin if I ever saw it! 😍

~

And last but certainly not least...this book was in the advent calendar's day 22 slot!

I would like to give credit to our fellow QM, @aloftmelevar who has cleverly pointed out a couple times—this time being no exception—that Onward is the 22nd film in Pixar's movie library!

Whether putting this story in day 22 for that reason was done on purpose...who knows? 🤔 But I personally would like to believe that it was!

~

In the end, now all I can think about is this: both versions of the story have different adjustments to the scale of the illustrations that we see, so there has to be full scale artworks of all of them, right?! 😲

Where those would be...I have no clue...

Guess after finding this advent calendar, that's my next Onward treasure hunt! 😉 😉

So anyway, there you have it, Quest Masters! The second detail scout of Mighty Mom!

We'll have to see if a third detail scout comes to pass if there's a potential third version of the story out there somewhere, but as I said in my last Mighty Mom detail scout post, I hope we get lots more Onward short stories featuring our beloved elf bois for years to come! In advent calendars, short story collections, step-into-readings, whatever the case may be, I WILL READ IT!

But for right now, I can honestly say that I like the Mighty Mom story even more now than I did on the day we discovered it! It's like the more you read into the details and piece together the context clues, the more fascinating and enjoyable media ends up being as a whole! 💖 I've found that with Onward itself, and now that I see that in this story too, there's no doubt I'll find it in any Onward story 😊

[woefully-undercaffeinated]

I didn't become an engineer the traditional way; rather than getting an engineering degree, doing internships, and then going straight into engineering work after college, I was forced to leave school early and study on my own while working as a cook, a customer service rep, an oilfield laborer, and an aircraft electrician. So as an engineer, I do my best to ensure that I don't segregate myself from the technicians, assemblers, cleaners, inventory stockers, and clerical staff. I try to be available to them as much as possible, help them when they're struggling, and stand up for them when another engineer or a manager is bullying them.

My client has been... demanding. They wanted the assembly plant on our campus to be operational *right away*, and so required the production company contracting with them to hire urgently and relocate workers from other states and other countries in order to work in a building that wasn't even half-finished -- it took six months for working bathrooms to be installed, the first three months were spent working in tents to prevent the dust and debris of the active construction zone from contaminating the prototypes we were working on, there was constant loud noise everywhere in the workplace, there were so few chairs that I caught people sitting on hazmat bins, and work space was limited so badly that stepping away from a workbench for a moment resulted in all of your work items being packed up and put away. There were sudden and unacceptable security policy changes enacted, such as the day we discovered that a personal search was a condition of exit from the production floor, or the month and a half we spent with no phone or chat access and no way for someone to reach us in an emergency. The production schedule was so ambitious that I and a good portion of the production staff frequently worked sixty- and seventy-hour weeks throughout the summer and fall, but despite the constant supply quality issues and conflicting directives we managed to stay on top and even get ahead of the schedule. Anyone who says "no-one wants to work anymore" needs to be dragged to my facility and shown just how much these men and women are willing to put up with for their job.

This morning, I came into my job to discover that all of the production staff in my workplace had been notified that the assembly plant is being shut down this spring. They'll spend the next few weeks wondering if they'll be required to relocate to another state or country to keep their jobs or simply let go, and then spend the rest of their holiday season dealing with the ramifications of that decision. And there's nothing I can do other than share pro-labor songs -- my NDA means I'm not even allowed to say who the client is.

But if any Dickensian spirits are looking for a Scrooge, I know of a few boardrooms that could use a visit.

[briansgermanlitblog]

Reflections on a Year of Reading German Literature

Titles Read:

The Book Thief - Markus Zusak

Refugee - Alan Grantz

The Diary of a Young Girl - Anne Frank

These books are from different countries and different time periods, but they all have a common thread of highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in times of adversity. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is set in Nazi Germany during World War II and follows the life of a young girl named Liesel, who finds solace in books during the darkest moments of her life.It’s setting is in Germany in the beginning when the Nazi is taking power. It portrays the power of literature and storytelling to provide hope and a sense of humanity in times of war and oppression, in Liesel's case while being a non jew she sees the events caused by Hitler first hand, it’s oppression and discrimination against Jews. The unnecessary violence, the construction of concentration camps, and forced relocation of Jews all taking place in the 1900s and through these hardships people managed to persist and survive using hope and family and friends (theme).

Refugee by Alan Grantz is a fiction novel 3 stories each based on a refugee child each from 3 countries - Syria, Nazi Germany, and Cuba. It shows the bravery and persistence of each refugee in their pursuit of a better freer, and life, despite the many struggles and dangers they go against. Joseph a Jew from the Nazi Germany story, experienced tragic losses with separation and death. Joseph and his family dreamt of an end of running and hiding while triumphing over many obstacles still dies at the end. Sacrificing himself and his mother to save Joseph’s sister Ruthie from the concentration camps. After both the mother and Joseph die in the concentration camp. Signifying the theme throughout the Nazi’s era and its stories caused a lot more deaths than dreams coming true and everyone surviving.

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank is a first hand experience of an adolescent Jewish girl's life in hiding during the Nazi rise to power of the Netherlands and Germany. It provides an introduction and story into the daily struggles and hopes of a young girl facing discrimination and forced to hide from the world - specifically the Nazi’s. Also highlights the importance of family, friends and a positive attitude towards the conflict. However Anne Frank was unable to survive World War II and Hitler’s reign even after all the safety precautions taken to avoid relocation to a concentration camp and death she couldn’t survive. Showing that the theme is life doesn’t always go your way

From these 3 books I read over the last 20 weeks, I learned that humanity can prevail even the darkest moments in history. These books show that hope, resilience, bravery, and a belief in a better future are essential to overcoming impossible situations that seem scarce in survival. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak you’re able to see the bond she makes in her new family when they open up and comfort Liesel during these tough times, like when Mr. Hubermann comforts Liesel commonly at night when she has a nightmare. Also, Refugee by Alan Grantz in Joseph’s story, Joseph in such a dark and dangerous moment in history that he bravely sacrificed himself so his sister would be spared, showing the resilience and courage Joseph had to save his sister like a highly responsible big brother. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, I remember while hiding in the annex from the Nazi’s, debris, and the missiles they persevered through hope, and resilience together as if by blood. They experienced tough times like being supplied with less rations and near caught experiences with the Nazi’s.

After these 20 weeks of Independent Reading I’ve learned more about myself concerning books and more about time management. For starters I’ve read business and personal finance books on the side before Independent Reading to become more financially literate. After reading more storytelling stories both nonfiction and fiction I’ve learned that I preferred reading finance books. Mainly because of the useful knowledge you gain about your future but also because the stories related to Germany are usually boring. In general I find books and reading boring. I’ve given it my best try and with an open mind but it never clicked with me. This Independent Reading assignment feels more like a chore than an actual thing I look forward to doing. On the other hand, while it feels like a chore I was able to adapt to my busy schedule and continue to read 10 pages everyday right after school and had time to go to work after.

[v-ividus]

9. The Complex Relationship Between Unyielding Traits and The Evolving States of Mind

“Traits don't change, states of mind do.” — Elizabeth Strout

In the high-stakes arena of human existence, the life of a rock climber serves as a powerful metaphor for the interplay between our solid foundations and the tumultuousness of our emotional experiences, especially when a wind storm descends. Picture a climber, poised against a towering cliff, each handhold and foothold representing core qualities like strength, determination, and focus—traits that anchor their ascent. Yet, as they ascend, the storm arrives, howling winds and swirling debris creating a chaotic backdrop that tests their resolve. This dynamic balance between stability and the tempest of emotion becomes a crucial lens through which we scrutinize our own journeys.

The unwavering traits that define a climber—fortitude, adaptability, and strategic thinking—act as sturdy anchors, providing them with the necessary support as they traverse the heights. However, when the winds of doubt and fear whip around them, threatening to dislodge their grip, the climber must draw even deeper upon their inner resources. Just as a gust can shift their center of gravity, our emotional states—from anxiety to exhilaration—can sway us, reminding us that even as our core identities may remain intact, the storm within can lead us astray.

In this narrative of struggle, existential philosophy reveals vital insights. The distinction between our enduring traits and the tempest of our emotions is not merely subjective but existentially imperative. The pursuit of authenticity becomes even more critical; the climber must confront not only the vertical challenges of the rock face but also the swirling winds that epitomize internal conflict. This relentless pursuit of self-reflection and growth transforms every climb into a lesson in resilience, as the climber learns to harness the power of the storm to propel them further upward.

By embracing this delicate balance between our firm roots and the chaotic winds, we carve pathways toward mastery over our destinies. Just as a climber emerges from the storm not just intact but invigorated, we too can transform vulnerabilities into strengths, allowing us to navigate life’s complexities with greater insight. Ultimately, it is the interplay of the rock, the climber, and the storm that enriches our understanding of the intricate web that constitutes the human experience, highlighting the beauty and challenge in every ascent.

Understanding Traits: Unraveling the Foundations of Personality and Human Behavior

Traits are often conceptualized as the fundamental underpinnings of personality—intrinsic qualities that not only define individual identity but also exhibit a remarkable stability across the lifespan. These personality traits function as a moral compass, influencing our predispositions and behavioral tendencies in various contexts. The philosophical discourse initiated by thinkers like Aristotle emphasizes that virtues are indispensable components of human nature, positing that traits are not arbitrary constructs but essential elements that shape our existence and inform our ethical frameworks.

In the realm of psychology, frameworks such as the Big Five model offer a structured approach to understanding personality by delineating traits into five primary dimensions: openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Each dimension encapsulates a spectrum of behavioral tendencies and cognitive styles, allowing for a nuanced analysis of individual differences. While the expression of these traits may vary in intensity among individuals, research indicates a surprising continuity over time, suggesting that our core personalities are deep-seated manifestations of innate dispositions. This intrinsic stability underscores the notion that personality traits are not merely reflections of situational contexts but are rather fundamental characteristics that guide our interactions and adaptations within the complexities of social life. By exploring the interplay between these enduring traits and our experiences, we gain insights into the intricate tapestry of human behavior and the essence of individuality.

The Fluidity of States of Mind: Exploring the Dynamic Nature of Consciousness and Emotional Experience

In stark contrast to the stable foundations of personality, our states of mind pulsate like a sophisticated communications relay, a brilliant array of colored lights signaling through the chaotic theater of life. These vibrant hues mirror our psychological and emotional states, continually adapting and shifting in response to the ever-evolving currents of our environment. At the center of this dazzling relay, you stand as a vigilant sentinel, discerning the subtleties embedded in each fleeting signal.

Envision yourself as the nexus of this complex system, where every flickering light encapsulates your attitudes, moods, and feelings—each illuminating a vast spectrum of human experience, akin to traffic signals guiding your passage through life’s unpredictable landscape. Red might communicate an imminent threat, urging caution and retreat, while green envelops you in a nurturing assurance of safety. This dynamic interplay aligns with the profound philosophies articulated by existentialists such as Jean-Paul Sartre, who championed the significance of individual agency and the fluid nature of consciousness. Here, you are far more than a passive observer; you are the conductor of this vibrant symphony, your unique perspective shaping the essence of each emotional experience.

As you navigate the intricate pathways of your mind, it is crucial to remain attuned to the abrupt shifts and fluctuations, reminiscent of the transient bursts of colored signals in a complex communication network. One moment, the bright light of resilience and hope may illuminate your path with clarity; the next, the dark shades of uncertainty may flicker ominously, casting shadows over your resolve. This interplay between the steadfast constructs of your character and the transient waves of your emotional states underscores your pivotal role in mastering control over your emotional landscape.

Ultimately, this journey into the depths of your consciousness seeks to unveil the elaborate tapestry of human existence, where each emotional signal interweaves with the fabric of experience. By embracing the interplay of light and shadow within this kaleidoscope of signals, you find the potential not only to navigate the complexities of life's challenges but also to illuminate the path toward profound self-discovery and fulfillment.

Mastering the Inner Game: The Interplay of Traits, States of Mind, and Emotional Environments

The interplay between traits, states of mind, and emotional environments is a profound dynamic that reveals the complex fabric of human behavior. Traits are the enduring characteristics that define us, the bedrock upon which our identities are built. Yet, these traits do not exist in a vacuum; they are brought to life through the ephemeral states of mind influenced by the emotional climates around us.

Take, for instance, the individual marked by agreeableness. In a nurturing environment filled with understanding and support, this trait can flourish, manifesting as collaboration and empathy. However, when thrust into a turbulent emotional atmosphere fraught with tension, that same individual may transform, revealing defensiveness or withdrawal. This metamorphosis underscores the pivotal role that our emotional contexts play in shaping the expression of our traits.

Moreover, the emotional environments we navigate—crafted through relationships, societal expectations, and contextual stimuli—actively condition our psychological states. This creates a powerful feedback loop: a positive emotional environment can elevate our state of mind and amplify our core traits, while a detrimental atmosphere can constrict our emotional responses and obscure our genuine selves.

Thus, the cultivation of acute self-awareness becomes essential. By discerning the delicate balance between our traits and ever-shifting emotional states within various contexts, we gain the ability to navigate our internal landscape with precision. This awareness not only enables us to steer our behavior consciously but also empowers us to curate emotional environments that nurture our intrinsic qualities, fostering resilience and paving the way for profound personal development. In mastering this art, we can wield our traits with strategic effectiveness, adapting to the world without losing sight of our true selves.

From Wounds to Strength: The Relentless Path of Emotional Transformation

In the realm of emotional recovery, envision a hand bruised and battered from a treacherous rock climb—each scratch and scar a testament to its struggle against the unforgiving terrain. This hand, once a symbol of strength and capability, now lies besieged by pain, swollen and raw, fingers curled in a painful reminder of its ordeal. The knuckles, darkened and inflamed, showcase the aftermath of a misstep in a perilous ascent, each gash narrating a story of recklessness and the harshness of nature, echoing the emotional wounds inflicted by toxic environments.

Strout’s insight mirrors this struggle, revealing that while our intrinsic traits—like the resilience of that hand—may remain steadfast, the states of mind we traverse during recovery can become the crucible within which healing occurs. Just as a rock climber must confront the physical limitations and pain of an injured hand, so too must one facing emotional trauma confront the depths of their own psyche. The journey of recovery is not merely about mending the outward wound; it demands an understanding of the internal shifts required to rebuild the self.

Recognizing this distinction reveals a powerful truth: our immediate reactions to trauma, like the involuntary flinching of an injured hand, do not define us. The raw nerves and tender skin speak of a momentary struggle rather than an unchangeable essence. Each impulse to react in anger or withdraw in fear is a fleeting state—a swell of emotion akin to the throbbing pain that accompanies the hand's initial injury. This understanding urges us to extend a gesture of self-compassion, allowing room for healing, much as we would treat an injured hand with care and patience.

In practical terms, the recovery of the hand follows a regimen of rehabilitation, paralleling the emotional recovery from trauma. One does not simply bandage the wounds and ignore the pain; one engages in gradual exercises, nurturing the weakened muscles, and coaxing the fingers to extend once again. This is the essence of transforming our approach to trauma—actively participating in the journey of healing. Each stretch of the fingers is akin to developing coping mechanisms, nurturing virtues of patience and empathy, ultimately reshaping our interactions with ourselves and others.

The path to emotional recovery is not linear; it resembles the winding routes of a challenging climb where progress may fluctuate. Yet, each step—no matter how small—is a testament to resilience, paving the way for growth and transformation. The scars left behind will serve not only as reminders of past wounds but as symbols of triumph, of battles fought and resilience forged.

As you navigate this arduous terrain, it’s essential to embrace a fierce resolve, acknowledging that healing doesn’t equate to forgetting, but rather transforming pain into wisdom. Like that battered hand, now marked by experiences both harrowing and enlightening, our emotional landscape flourishes when we accept and confront it.

In this crucible of recovery, every faltering step, whether marked by progress or temporary setbacks, contributes to the powerful tapestry of your life. Celebrate those moments of strength, for they propel you forward, carving out space for renewal and redefining the narrative of your journey. You are not merely enduring; you are thriving against the odds, transforming trauma into tenacity, and vulnerability into unyielding strength. Your story deserves to be honored, as it unfolds with each brave step you take toward healing.

Ascending the Mountain of Identity and Transformation

In conclusion, Elizabeth Strout's insight brilliantly unveils the gripping dualities embedded in the essence of human existence. Our traits, those unwavering pillars of our identity, ground us with unshakeable strength—much like the solid earth that supports us. In stark contrast, our states of mind are the vibrant, swirling currents above, ever-responsive and dynamic, reflecting the exhilarating chaos of experience. This electrifying interplay serves as a powerful reminder of the essential roles of self-awareness and compassion, propelling us on our daring journey toward monumental personal growth and deeply enriching relationships.

As we boldly navigate the expansive plains of life, let us ignite the understanding that while our traits anchor us with resolute stability, it is our states of mind that grant us the fiery ability to adapt and metamorphose. Picture yourself, the fearless climber, standing at the base of a towering mountain, heart racing with anticipation as you prepare to conquer the heights before you. With every challenge you face, harness the indomitable strength of your enduring traits and the exhilarating flexibility of your thoughts. Surge upward, embrace the thrilling adventure of existence, and thrive, unyielding in the tempest of life’s relentless changes.

[thecorpseswallower]

V. Azar

Though Asgard was circular, its streets were anything but tidy and concentric. Instead they crawled up and around buildings, with pathways of laid brick that bled into rooftops, the strata connected by stairs made either of stone or debris so well-trod that they had become permanent fixtures.

The buildings— each a tower in its own respect— were all white underneath the burn scars. The material was the same as whatever coated the Alfarin armour before battle: a type of stone mined from the surrounding mountains that coated the lungs of their masons, but did not melt under flashfire. The shorter structures, less grandiose in their construction and occupancy, had beams and roofs of wood and clearly suffered heavier damages as a result. Lines of severe iron thorns crowned the highest points of every flat surface, leaving the dragons little space to land.

Then, of course, there were the ballistas. The hulking metal sculptures were still and silent with no one to man them, resting with their heads raised to the furtive sun.

Azar tried to focus on each new sight, sound and smell to distract him from the danger that followed in their wake. The gargantuan Knight’s presence felt more like that of a leashed bear than any Spoken, and their scent continued to vex him. His mother had told her children many stories— as was tradition for both genders at an early age, though his sisters would go on to receive a more thorough education. She had taught them of the great and regal Yaksha, the Hares of Mictlan, even of the nameless giants of lost Kha… But all her stories were learned in Shambhala. Whatever this being was, it matched nothing in their history.

The tour’s first destination was a marketplace. Hadrien steered them left of the lonely yellow tree and said, “There are many such markets around the city, but this is the largest. It’s also right on the edge of the Dregs, where sunlight seldom reaches. I would not advise that you wander down there alone, but if you get lost, it’s quite easy to find your way back towards the light.”

Azar doubted the truth of that. It became immediately clear to him that the signage in the city, even when legible, was almost useless. Arrows pointed in conflicting directions with little to indicate up from down. More than once, Azar had assumed that he was standing on solid ground only to look down and see lights shining up from the grates beneath his paws. With cellar doors that blended into roads, balconies that became streets and streets that became foyers, privacy seemed to be a privilege afforded only to those physically higher up than others.

More useful by far was the graffiti. From signalling alleys with colourful waymarks to advertising shops otherwise lost in the clutter, Azar quickly began to take notice of it, categorising the layout of the place solely by its scribbled landmarks. Of course, the denizens of Asgard would have little use for actual directions— It wasn’t as if they had anywhere else to venture.

Azar caught the scent of smoked meat and bread as they approached the markets. The warm brush of an open fire tempted him from somewhere unseen; above, jewellers displayed their wares from windows overlooking millers’ stalls while outfitters had strung garments overhead like a parade of flags. Glassmakers and grocers shared bench space, shielding their goods from a spray of ashes that rained down from the smithies on the higher levels.

There were a great many Alfar there, but any hopes of blending in were dashed immediately, of course. The foreigners and their multitude of species drew seemingly every eye towards themselves from the first step.

Lorna and Talfryn both looked ready to make some kind of declaration, but before they could speak, the huge Knight shambled forward. They did not say a word, only raised one massive hand to the crowd and the Alfar immediately parted before them. With the road clear, Azar noticed a mural laid in the brickwork: Another mosaic that stretched down the entirety of the market square, its grey, blue, and golden bricks painting fields of yellow trees and running, nameless animals.

The Commander did what he could to assuage the onlookers. “As you were. The Church seeks only to escort its visiting diplomats. We intend to show them the finest wares of Asgard, and where they may safely purchase whatever they have need of.”

His words seemed to rouse some motion in the crowd. A few sellers dusted the snow away from their goods; fires crackled as new kindling was added. Some Alfar leaned in to whisper to one another behind raised hands while merchants beckoned towards them with their wares, everything from weapons to trinkets, candles to vegetables.

In the short time Azar had spent travelling with the Scholars, he was coming to expect such responses to their presence. It was only a miracle that the energy underpinning their excitement was not openly hostile. Perhaps a bit predatory— new blood had just entered their economy for the first time in two centuries— but at least no one seemed to wish them harm.

Lorna had her attention stolen by some toys and picked up a vibrant wooden ibex to inspect its construction. Its little legs dangled on eye-hooks, swinging freely as she turned it this way and that. “What is the currency here?” She asked.

Lárus was the one to answer. “I believe you would call it hacksilver. House Gage oversees the monetary affairs of the See’s treasury and, by extension, that of Asgard’s citizens.” He produced a handful of silvery pebbles from a bag hidden beneath his cloak, then tipped them into Lorna’s palm. “Smaller shavings are cut from larger ingots, though you may pay in jewellery, foreign coinage, anything with a shine and some value. Merchants will weigh your offer all the same.

Adonia added, “As for your own finances, consider them taken care of. House Chèvrellier will receive a stipend, and it may be increased, if so needed. You may discuss the matter with me later— or with my father,” she added quickly, as if an afterthought.

Lárus plucked a small wooden figurine off the table. It showed a man in a feather cloak with an open ledger in one hand, the other raised with its palm outwards. It did not appear to be for sale, but the merchant spoke animatedly with Lárus in their native tongue, and whatever they said seemed to please the Commander. He set the figurine back down, letting his fingers linger on its unpainted head before moving on.

When Lorna attempted to give the silver pebbles to the merchant, the seller refused her. She offered the ibex instead, but that was rejected, too.

“Take,” said the merchant. “If it pleases you, take it. No payment.”

“But—”

“Next time, you pay. Not now. Take it.”

Lorna bowed her head with many thanks, handling the toy with a delicacy that Azar did not often see her employ outside the smithy— but the seller's actions seemed to inspire others to offer their own alms, and suddenly the Scholars had their arms piled high with gifts, some far more useful than others. The twins each found themselves in possession of a hat, while the others were handed parchment, bolts of wool, bowls and sheers.

Hadrien laughed at their plight as a baker shoved a loaf of round bread into Emil's arms. “You see? Our people welcome you.”

Whatever their intentions were, be they kind or not, all the renewed commotion only set Azar on-edge. In a crowd like this, who could tell when a purse was cut or a knife drawn? Besides, the Alfar seemed unfamiliar with Mau, and that never led to anything good. He felt someone brush a hand against his tail and bit back the urge to hiss.

He took a few steps away in the hopes that he might slip quietly out of notice, only to back directly into the big Knight. All the fur on his body rose at once. When the behemoth sighed, he felt the motion more than he heard it.

They stood at their full height, and the entire market fell silent.

“I’m sure the Scholars will have many chances to sample your wares… On their own time,” Lárus said with smooth diplomacy. Without a trace of fear, he came to stand at the side of his monster. “We still have much of the city to see. If you have any gifts, I’m certain that House Chèvrellier would happily receive them for you.”

That finally killed the commotion for good. The sellers shrunk back into their stalls or behind their tables. A few even took back their gifts, but they remained unassailed throughout the rest of the market, and not one offered their wares to the care of House Chèvrellier.

As the warmth faded and the mosaic came to an end, a new sound drifted towards them: a droning, low melody that came from somewhere in the tangled mess of buildings. The scent of acrid incense followed, which Azar recognised at once.

“That’s the same thing you burned at the Bifrost,” he said to Hadrien, using the guise of conversation to move even further away from the big Knight.

“It is. Come, we might catch the Attendants as they perform their rounds. Usually they do this before dawn, but they are a bit late today— Fortunately for us!”

The chant was in Common, but the words were sung so slowly that Azar could not understand them. When they did catch sight of the Attendants, it was from above: three Alfar clad in trailing white robes, all wearing heavy veils that left only their mouths showing. Two carried tall pikes: one tipped with a burning wick, and the other a pool of oil. The Attendant at the front held a thurible that dispensed a dense cloud of smoke with every swing. Periodically, the group would stop to raise the pikes and tip some of the burning oil into tall basins that lined the streets. Each fire they lit produced another wave of pungent fumes.

“Attendants have many roles,” Hadrien explained. “These poor fools are on lamplighting duty. Each morning they light the braziers, and each night they snuff out the embers. The smoke keeps the dragons at bay. Little ones suffocate if they breathe too much in, and the bigger ones dislike it.”

Azar doubted that a bit of smoke would be enough to deter the dragon in the fog, but maybe that’s what saved them from being crushed or ignited. Either way, the smell was equally as unpleasant to him. He raised a sleeve to his nose until the worst of it dissipated.

“You grow these herbs here?” Asked Lorna.

Lárus nodded. “We grow everything here, or in the surrounding cities. When the east fell to Níðhöggr we lost much of our viable farmland, but we have been managing.”

The Attendants and their song moved further into the darkness of the Dregs; Hadrien led the Scholars up another level.

Just as privacy increased at higher altitudes, so did the city’s opulence. Few stones were left without ornamentation, no matter how mundane their purpose. There were other Knights milling about, too— none so large or so armoured as the one in their company, but even in plain tunics, their status was evident by how they straightened their posture in the presence of their Commander.

“We will soon be at the barracks,” said Hadrien. “One of the roots of the Archbasilica. You can find Lárus here more often than not, and Svan, who I don’t think ever leaves.”

The behemoth snorted. Azar was sure to remember that name, as it would make it much easier to avoid them.

They came upon the building with little fanfare. Two tattered blue flags marked its entrance, which was given more breathing room than most as it rested on the edge of a circular commons. Its long body snaked backwards, travelling up the mountainside by hundreds of steps until it joined with that of Saint Ásmundr. Like a grafted scion, it did not match the architectural style of the grand archbasilica. The barracks were shorter, stockier, with no conical towers or grand windows; on either side of its body were rows of steeply angled buttress supports, lending it the appearance of a skeletal ribcage.

By Azar’s best guess, the commons in which they stood were meant to be a kind of garden. The grass in its planters was short and dead, and no flowers nor bushes had grown in to fill the space. Still, benches and tables were dotted around the outermost ring, and a halo of blue stone filled the interior. A fountain stood at the centre with a beautiful young woman as its focus. She wore plate in a similar fashion to the Knights, holding a spear aloft with one hand and dragging the branch of a yew tree behind her with the other.

“There is no reason to linger here,” Lárus said. “I will call upon you to visit soon enough. Hadrien has the right of it, though; should you have need of myself, Sigur, or Svanhild,” he patted the arm of the beast next to him, “We will be happy to receive you at any hour.”

Another climb loomed ahead of them. Hadrien hoisted his frail little brother atop his shoulders to bear him up the steps. Before they reached the mountain’s peak, several Scholars called for a pause to catch their breath.

Azar was not about to complain— his legs burning, he allowed himself a moment to admire the thorny spires from his seat upon the seemingly endless stairs. The sun had finally emerged from its bed of clouds and cast the city aglow, the brilliance of a thousand white buildings beaming back up at him like the reflection of the sky on an open sea.

The air was much thinner here, drier and colder than what he was accustomed to. Combined with all the exercise, and the adrenaline of the past few nights finally ebbing away, he felt almost as if he were floating… He had to stifle a laugh at the absurdity of it all.

From this high up, the world looked small. It had not seemed so minuscule when last he stood upon a precipice. He ran a paw against the chalky white bricks under him and wondered whether this ossuary in the clouds, its white bones on white snow under a white sky, would have had any kind of prophetic significance to his mother or his sisters. Lacking their tutelage in such matters, he had yet to determine for himself if he trusted this strange land— or if they had fled from war only to find shelter in a crypt.

But shelter is still shelter, no matter how cold. When the others called for him, he stood, swayed, and kept climbing.

In all his years, Azar had seen a great number of marvellous sights. The enormous warships of Cockaigne, the glittering wonders of the Elysian markets, the garden cities of wealthy Panchaia and all the cultures that mingled within— not to mention he was Mau, and so carried with him the legacy of Kha’s first and greatest civilizations, even without having seen them in the flesh.

Saint Ásmundr was unlike all of them. Enormous even at a distance, it could have been its own city in isolation. The courtyard welcomed them first with rows of golden and silver trees. The unmistakable sheen of metal on their foliage was no mere trick of the light, but neither were they sedentary statues; they swayed in the breeze, thousands of metal leaves clinking together like a sea of coins.

Talfryn picked up one of the fallen leaves at their feet. Its gold was tinged with red, and it conformed easily to whatever shape she twisted it into without breaking. Azar motioned for her to hand it over and bit into the metal. His teeth sank right through, leaving two perfect puncture holes.

“It's not true gold,” he said. “And it's not hard enough to be brass. Is this lead?”

Hadrien said, “No, it is the foliage of Glasislundr. These are the last trees to survive. The silver is not true silver, either, but comes from the saplings of the Læraðr. There were once forests of these trees before our war decimated the land. It is a good metal for hollow spears and ornaments, but terrible for anything else, really.”

Metallic trees were only a taste of the wealth that resided within the archbasilica. Azar knew his vision was less splendid than that of the Aos Si, but even to his eye, the cathedral’s interior glittered with a thousand colours. Its towering windows dyed the sunlight in vibrant, shifting hues, puddling colours onto the tree-like mosaics underfoot. Pillars of gold-veined stone supported walkways to either side of them, with bridges, stairwells and antechambers hidden amongst the ornate carvings that emerged from nearly every surface. Most depicted dragons. A fair few were speared by lances, their alabaster wings pinned to a backdrop of murals or arching overhead, chandeliers and thuribles dangling from their feathers. The ribs of the domed ceiling depicted Alfarin figures reaching towards the apex, some clad in flowing robes, others in nothing at all. Even the seemingly empty spaces were engraved with abstracted florals, a pattern that Azar nearly mistook for boteh.

The halls— roads, moreso— branched into labyrinthine directions. The one ahead of them eventually terminated in a gilded fence. Behind it, a grand and glittering altar stood too far back for his eyes to make out the details. Still, the incense burned within was warm, earthy and hot in a way Azar found familiar. There were Elysian scents in there… Shambhalan ones, too. The musk of animals Azar was born to hunt, flowers his people’s paws would have sown in some distant age.

He heard Medb ask, “Are you alright, Azar?”

“Hm?”

“Your eyes are like dinner plates,” she said, waving a hand in front of his face. “Are you feeling okay?”

“Yes,” he lied. The sheer scale of everything was making his head spin.

Their Alfarin hosts appeared unaffected by the grandeur. Having slowed to a stop in the middle of the broad walkway, they waited for the Scholars to finish their ogling with varying degrees of patience. Lárus seemed the most bemused of them all; something like pride glimmered in those pinprick pupils.

He said to them, once their attention had finally turned away from the grand architecture, “In truth, this is not only a tour of the city. I intend to introduce you to some of the Ravens while we are here.”

“Not the Pontiff?” Lorna asked.

“No.” That was fortunate. It would not do to meet any political leaders when they looked as bedraggled as the climb had left them, still holding onto the gifts they had been given in the markets. “The Pontiff’s time is highly valuable, and he spends much of it in communication with Our Lady. But rest assured, the Ravens are his eyes and ears. You should treat them as if you were speaking to the Pontiff himself. Perhaps once we are closer to achieving our goal, then you may be summoned… But until such a time, you are not likely to see him.”

Many hands make light work, and many voices strengthen the choir. “How many of these ‘Ravens’ are there?” Azar asked.

“One-hundred and forty-three, last I checked. You will know them when you see them. Maybe not by their faces, but by their black robes.”

“Like yours?”

“No,” he said. “The Ravens wear black to distinguish themselves from the rest of the ministry. We bastards are not permitted to wear lighter colours, even in battle.”

“Unless,” Adonia added, staring pointedly at Hadrien, “They were formally acknowledged.”

He shrugged. Ursus, still seated on his brother’s back, mutely hugged him tighter.

Lárus politely ignored the three of them. “Light reflects light. Our finer wools go towards protecting those of greater worth. Well, speak of the sun and it shines. Good morning Raven Suni, Raven Hróðgeirr.”

The two Ravens were old men of shorter stature. One had a lean and long face, while the other was knobbly, bearded, and holding a pile of scrolls under one arm. Their robes were less ornate than the Attendants, but each wore a stole of a different colour.

The lean-faced one nodded at the group. “Scholars. We must apologise for such a lacklustre welcome. Your arrival was sooner than we had expected.”

Lorna said, “We are most grateful for your hospitality, especially considering the… Circumstances.” She winced at herself and added, “Forgive me, we lost our orator not but a few nights ago.”

“So we have heard. Worry not, Lárus has kept us well abreast of the situation at hand. His Holiness has permitted your participation in our war, and so we are happy to assist you in any way we can.”

Lárus inclined his head towards the knobbly man and asked, “What scrolls are those, Your Eminence?”

The Raven moved as if to shield them from his eyes. “Upon your request, Commander, these are for your prisoner.”

“Has he made any progress on the matter?”

“If he has, he will not tell us.”

Lárus smiled. “Well, Sigur is not talkative at the best of times. I will visit him once I’m done here. Do not let us keep you from your business.”

The Ravens shuffled away; not quickly, but pointedly all the same. The Alfar appeared unperturbed by their brusqueness.

“That went better than I expected,” Hadrien remarked.

Lárus did not seem surprised. “I have been negotiating this since first receiving your letter. They have extended the Pontiff’s blessings towards you— that is good.” See that you do not lose it, seemed to be implied. Lárus closed his eyes for a moment, took a breath, then sighed in resolution. “I fear that this is where I must part with you. I should check in on how things are going at the barracks.”

When the large Knight in his company moved to follow, Azar felt a shiver of relief snake down his back. It was a pity to have lost the Commander’s enigmatic company, but if it meant getting that beast away from him…

Little Ursus fidgeted until Hadrien allowed him to climb down. “I want to go to the fountains,” he said, tugging on his brother’s wrist. “They’ll like it there.”

Hadrien was in no position to argue. “You know best, Lord Ursus! Come, all. Running water is miraculous enough in such weather, but have you ever seen a fountain that boils?”

Unable to explain his reasoning, Azar’s eye lingered on the Commander and his Knight until the two were out of sight.

[kinglandclearing]

Professional Lot Clearing Near Whiteville: King Land Clearing

Clearing the land is one of the first and most crucial activities as you prepare for a development project or if you are seeking to renovate your land. Regardless of whether it is a new construction of a residential or commercial building, farming, or planting of crops, or development of a landscape, lot clearing is the basic step in ensuring that the project is a success. To the residents and business people of Whiteville, NC, King Land Clearing presents lot clearing services that will be delivered to your expectations, with speed, precision and safety.

The Importance of Professional Lot Clearing

Lot clearing is an important aspect of land preparation for any form of development to take place. This means clearing of trees, shrubs, stumps, rock out crops and any other obstruction in order to have a clear land for construction or for farming. Here are several reasons why professional lot clearing is essential:

1. Clears the Land for Construction

First of all, the land has to be prepared: cleared and leveled before any construction can happen. Land clearing clears out any structures such as trees, big rocks, and roots that may hinder the placing of your development. This is especially important in construction of homes or even businesses where a good foundation is desired to anchor the structures in place.

2. Improves Land Usability

Lot clearing is useful when you are planning to cultivate land for agriculture or when constructing a house, or even when you want to set aside land for a playground. You clear a piece of land by cutting down unnecessary trees and shrubs to make a space to work on and construct a building.

3. Enhances Property Aesthetics

This is because a clean well cleared lot enhances the outlook of your property and thus its value. Removing the undergrowth and the dying trees makes the compound aesthetically pleasing and easy to manage.

4. Prevents Fire Hazards

In many instances, the undergrowth and the trees that have died can cause a fire outbreak. Clearing all dry and inflammable items from your lot will also help to prevent fire outbreaks extending throughout your property.

King Land Clearing: Your Lot Clearing Experts Near Whiteville

King Land Clearing ensures you get the best lot clearing services in Whiteville, NC, and its environs since that is where our main focus lies. Our team of professionals includes personnel who have worked in land clearing for many years and can handle both small and large projects. We employ the latest technology and methods to guarantee that the job is completed efficiently, and our commitment to our clients guarantees you get what you want in the required time and cost.

Here’s a closer look at the services we provide:

1. Tree and Stump Removal

A primary objective of lot clearing is to eliminate trees and stumps from an area. King Land Clearing has the right tools and knowledge to effectively clear trees of any size for our customers. Stump removal is also essential to avoid such problems as regrowth or conflict with construction designs.

2. Brush Clearing

Brush clearing is the removal of trees and shrub thickets and other forms of vegetation that might hamper the usage of the land. This service is suitable for residential, agricultural and commercial properties that require preparation for development or landscaping.

3. Grading and Site Preparation

Grading prevents a situation where the land is not properly leveled or drained before even construction or even addition of plants or trees. Grading work also enables control of water drainage problems such as formation of pools or floods which may harm structures or affect the set architectural designs. Our grading services guarantee that your land is level and secure for the subsequent stage of development.

4. Debris Removal and Cleanup

Following tree and brush clearance, we also address the issue of debris clearance. At King Land Clearing, we do not take our time to leave mess around and our land will be cleared and ready for use. In our debris removal service we also take away logs, branches and other materials that we leave behind after clearing.

Why Choose King Land Clearing?

It is important that you select the right company to do a lot of clearing for your project to be a success. Here are a few reasons why King Land Clearing is the best choice for lot clearing near Whiteville:

1. Experienced Professionals

Our team has had many years of experience in land clearing and excavation. We have dealt with all types of projects, including single house constructions, construction of houses for sale, and even construction of commercial land. 

2. Advanced Equipment

At our company, we employ the best equipment to make sure that your lot clearing project is done effectively and without any risks. The machinery we own enables us to work in areas of low accessibility including steep slopes, forests and mountainous regions.

3. Customer-Centric Approach

At King Land Clearing, the satisfaction of the customer is a priority. Our services are personalized to ensure that we meet your objectives by providing you with a solution that suits your needs. 

4. Safety First

Tree clearing is a very dangerous operation, especially if it involves cutting down big trees and/or operating on a slope. Clearing process poses certain risks to the workers and the property; thus, our team observes standard precaution measures.

[sapiavividus]

Traits don't change, states of mind do. — Elizabeth Strout

Awakening Hope: The Complex Relationship Between Our Unyielding Traits and Our Evolving States of Mind

In the high-stakes arena of human existence, the life of a rock climber serves as a powerful metaphor for the interplay between our solid foundations and the tumultuousness of our emotional experiences, especially when a wind storm descends. Picture a climber, poised against a towering cliff, each handhold and foothold representing core qualities like strength, determination, and focus—traits that anchor their ascent. Yet, as they ascend, the storm arrives, howling winds and swirling debris creating a chaotic backdrop that tests their resolve. This dynamic balance between stability and the tempest of emotion becomes a crucial lens through which we scrutinize our own journeys.

The unwavering traits that define a climber—fortitude, adaptability, and strategic thinking—act as sturdy anchors, providing them with the necessary support as they traverse the heights. However, when the winds of doubt and fear whip around them, threatening to dislodge their grip, the climber must draw even deeper upon their inner resources. Just as a gust can shift their center of gravity, our emotional states—from anxiety to exhilaration—can sway us, reminding us that even as our core identities may remain intact, the storm within can lead us astray.

In this narrative of struggle, existential philosophy reveals vital insights. The distinction between our enduring traits and the tempest of our emotions is not merely academic but existentially imperative. The pursuit of authenticity becomes even more critical; the climber must confront not only the vertical challenges of the rock face but also the swirling winds that epitomize internal conflict. This relentless pursuit of self-reflection and growth transforms every climb into a lesson in resilience, as the climber learns to harness the power of the storm to propel them further upward.

By embracing this delicate balance between our firm roots and the chaotic winds, we carve pathways toward mastery over our destinies. Just as a climber emerges from the storm not just intact but invigorated, we too can transform vulnerabilities into strengths, allowing us to navigate life’s complexities with greater insight. Ultimately, it is the interplay of the rock, the climber, and the storm that enriches our understanding of the intricate web that constitutes the human experience, highlighting the beauty and challenge in every ascent.

Understanding Traits: Unraveling the Foundations of Personality and Human Behavior

Traits are often conceptualized as the fundamental underpinnings of personality—intrinsic qualities that not only define individual identity but also exhibit a remarkable stability across the lifespan. These personality traits function as a moral compass, influencing our predispositions and behavioral tendencies in various contexts. The philosophical discourse initiated by thinkers like Aristotle emphasizes that virtues are indispensable components of human nature, positing that traits are not arbitrary constructs but essential elements that shape our existence and inform our ethical frameworks.

In the realm of psychology, frameworks such as the Big Five model offer a structured approach to understanding personality by delineating traits into five primary dimensions: openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Each dimension encapsulates a spectrum of behavioral tendencies and cognitive styles, allowing for a nuanced analysis of individual differences. While the expression of these traits may vary in intensity among individuals, research indicates a surprising continuity over time, suggesting that our core personalities are deep-seated manifestations of innate dispositions. This intrinsic stability underscores the notion that personality traits are not merely reflections of situational contexts but are rather fundamental characteristics that guide our interactions and adaptations within the complexities of social life. By exploring the interplay between these enduring traits and our experiences, we gain insights into the intricate tapestry of human behavior and the essence of individuality.

The Fluidity of States of Mind: Exploring the Dynamic Nature of Consciousness and Emotional Experience

In stark contrast to the stable foundations of personality, our states of mind pulsate like a sophisticated communications relay, a brilliant array of colored lights signaling through the chaotic theater of life. These vibrant hues mirror our psychological and emotional states, continually adapting and shifting in response to the ever-evolving currents of our environment. At the center of this dazzling relay, you stand as a vigilant sentinel, discerning the subtleties embedded in each fleeting signal.

Envision yourself as the nexus of this complex system, where every flickering light encapsulates your attitudes, moods, and feelings—each illuminating a vast spectrum of human experience, akin to traffic signals guiding your passage through life’s unpredictable landscape. Red might communicate an imminent threat, urging caution and retreat, while green envelops you in a nurturing assurance of safety. This dynamic interplay aligns with the profound philosophies articulated by existentialists such as Jean-Paul Sartre, who championed the significance of individual agency and the fluid nature of consciousness. Here, you are far more than a passive observer; you are the conductor of this vibrant symphony, your unique perspective shaping the essence of each emotional experience.

As you navigate the intricate pathways of your mind, it is crucial to remain attuned to the abrupt shifts and fluctuations, reminiscent of the transient bursts of colored signals in a complex communication network. One moment, the bright light of resilience and hope may illuminate your path with clarity; the next, the dark shades of uncertainty may flicker ominously, casting shadows over your resolve. This interplay between the steadfast constructs of your character and the transient waves of your emotional states underscores your pivotal role in mastering control over your emotional landscape.

Ultimately, this journey into the depths of your consciousness seeks to unveil the elaborate tapestry of human existence, where each emotional signal interweaves with the fabric of experience. By embracing the interplay of light and shadow within this kaleidoscope of signals, you find the potential not only to navigate the complexities of life's challenges but also to illuminate the path toward profound self-discovery and fulfillment.

Mastering the Inner Game: The Interplay of Traits, States of Mind, and Emotional Environments

The interplay between traits, states of mind, and emotional environments is a profound dynamic that reveals the complex fabric of human behavior. Traits are the enduring characteristics that define us, the bedrock upon which our identities are built. Yet, these traits do not exist in a vacuum; they are brought to life through the ephemeral states of mind influenced by the emotional climates around us.

Take, for instance, the individual marked by agreeableness. In a nurturing environment filled with understanding and support, this trait can flourish, manifesting as collaboration and empathy. However, when thrust into a turbulent emotional atmosphere fraught with tension, that same individual may transform, revealing defensiveness or withdrawal. This metamorphosis underscores the pivotal role that our emotional contexts play in shaping the expression of our traits.

Moreover, the emotional environments we navigate—crafted through relationships, societal expectations, and contextual stimuli—actively condition our psychological states. This creates a powerful feedback loop: a positive emotional environment can elevate our state of mind and amplify our core traits, while a detrimental atmosphere can constrict our emotional responses and obscure our genuine selves.

Thus, the cultivation of acute self-awareness becomes essential. By discerning the delicate balance between our traits and ever-shifting emotional states within various contexts, we gain the ability to navigate our internal landscape with precision. This awareness not only enables us to steer our behavior consciously but also empowers us to curate emotional environments that nurture our intrinsic qualities, fostering resilience and paving the way for profound personal development. In mastering this art, we can wield our traits with strategic effectiveness, adapting to the world without losing sight of our true selves.

From Wounds to Strength: The Relentless Path of Emotional Transformation

In the realm of emotional recovery, envision a hand bruised and battered from a treacherous rock climb—each scratch and scar a testament to its struggle against the unforgiving terrain. This hand, once a symbol of strength and capability, now lies besieged by pain, swollen and raw, fingers curled in a painful reminder of its ordeal. The knuckles, darkened and inflamed, showcase the aftermath of a misstep in a perilous ascent, each gash narrating a story of recklessness and the harshness of nature, echoing the emotional wounds inflicted by toxic environments.

Strout’s insight mirrors this struggle, revealing that while our intrinsic traits—like the resilience of that hand—may remain steadfast, the states of mind we traverse during recovery can become the crucible within which healing occurs. Just as a rock climber must confront the physical limitations and pain of an injured hand, so too must one facing emotional trauma confront the depths of their own psyche. The journey of recovery is not merely about mending the outward wound; it demands an understanding of the internal shifts required to rebuild the self.

Recognizing this distinction reveals a powerful truth: our immediate reactions to trauma, like the involuntary flinching of an injured hand, do not define us. The raw nerves and tender skin speak of a momentary struggle rather than an unchangeable essence. Each impulse to react in anger or withdraw in fear is a fleeting state—a swell of emotion akin to the throbbing pain that accompanies the hand's initial injury. This understanding urges us to extend a gesture of self-compassion, allowing room for healing, much as we would treat an injured hand with care and patience.

In practical terms, the recovery of the hand follows a regimen of rehabilitation, paralleling the emotional recovery from trauma. One does not simply bandage the wounds and ignore the pain; one engages in gradual exercises, nurturing the weakened muscles, and coaxing the fingers to extend once again. This is the essence of transforming our approach to trauma—actively participating in the journey of healing. Each stretch of the fingers is akin to developing coping mechanisms, nurturing virtues of patience and empathy, ultimately reshaping our interactions with ourselves and others.

The path to emotional recovery is not linear; it resembles the winding routes of a challenging climb where progress may fluctuate. Yet, each step—no matter how small—is a testament to resilience, paving the way for growth and transformation. The scars left behind will serve not only as reminders of past wounds but as symbols of triumph, of battles fought and resilience forged.

As you navigate this arduous terrain, it’s essential to embrace a fierce resolve, acknowledging that healing doesn’t equate to forgetting, but rather transforming pain into wisdom. Like that battered hand, now marked by experiences both harrowing and enlightening, our emotional landscape flourishes when we accept and confront it.

In this crucible of recovery, every faltering step, whether marked by progress or temporary setbacks, contributes to the powerful tapestry of your life. Celebrate those moments of strength, for they propel you forward, carving out space for renewal and redefining the narrative of your journey. You are not merely enduring; you are thriving against the odds, transforming trauma into tenacity, and vulnerability into unyielding strength. Your story deserves to be honored, as it unfolds with each brave step you take toward healing.

Conclusion: Ascending the Mountain of Identity and Transformation

In conclusion, Elizabeth Strout's insight brilliantly unveils the gripping dualities embedded in the essence of human existence. Our traits, those unwavering pillars of our identity, ground us with unshakeable strength—much like the solid earth that supports us. In stark contrast, our states of mind are the vibrant, swirling currents above, ever-responsive and dynamic, reflecting the exhilarating chaos of experience. This electrifying interplay serves as a powerful reminder of the essential roles of self-awareness and compassion, propelling us on our daring journey toward monumental personal growth and deeply enriching relationships.

As we boldly navigate the expansive plains of life, let us ignite the understanding that while our traits anchor us with resolute stability, it is our states of mind that grant us the fiery ability to adapt and metamorphose. Picture yourself, the fearless climber, standing at the base of a towering mountain, heart racing with anticipation as you prepare to conquer the heights before you. With every challenge you face, harness the indomitable strength of your enduring traits and the exhilarating flexibility of your thoughts. Surge upward, embrace the thrilling adventure of existence, and thrive, unyielding in the tempest of life’s relentless changes.

Thank you for reading!

[blueo9035]

Avoiding Pitfalls When Installing a Large Pool: Why Professionals Are Essential  

Installing a large pool is a major undertaking, one that can significantly enhance your property’s value and create a space for family fun, relaxation, and fitness. However, pool installation is far from simple—it requires meticulous planning, expertise, and precise execution.

Without the proper knowledge, you could encounter costly mistakes that might turn your backyard dream into a logistical nightmare. Here's a detailed look at the common pitfalls to avoid when installing a large pool and why relying on professional pool builders is the best way to ensure a smooth process.

Common Pitfalls in DIY Pool Installation

1. Inadequate Planning

One of the most significant mistakes homeowners make is underestimating the planning phase. Installing a pool involves more than digging a hole and filling it with water. You need to account for:

Permits and zoning laws: Ignoring local regulations can lead to fines or even pool removal.

Site selection: Poor positioning can result in drainage issues, excessive debris from nearby trees, or safety hazards.

Pool size and design: A mismatch between the pool's size and the available space can cause functional and aesthetic problems.

2. Improper Ground Preparation

The ground beneath your pool must be stable and level. Skipping steps like soil testing or grading can lead to structural issues, such as:

Pool shifting or sinking over time.

Cracks in the pool shell due to uneven support.

3. Underestimating Costs

DIY pool projects often run over budget because homeowners fail to consider hidden expenses, such as:

Excavation surprises (e.g., hitting bedrock or underground utilities).

Additional materials for reinforcing the pool structure.

Landscaping and pool deck construction.

4. Inadequate Plumbing and Electrical Work

Pool plumbing and electrical systems are complex and require professional knowledge. Mistakes in these areas can lead to:

Inefficient filtration, resulting in dirty or unsafe water.

Faulty wiring, posing electrical hazards or causing equipment failures.

5. Skipping Safety Features

DIY projects sometimes overlook essential safety features, such as fencing, pool covers, and alarms. This oversight can lead to accidents, particularly if you have children or pets.

6. Incorrect Material Choices

Selecting the wrong materials for your pool liner, tiles, or decking can result in durability issues, frequent repairs, and higher maintenance costs.

Why Professional Installation Is the Best Choice

Hiring professional pool installers like Ocean Blue Pools eliminates the guesswork and ensures your project is completed efficiently, safely, and up to code. Here’s why working with experts is essential:

1. Expert Knowledge and Experience

Professionals have years of experience and are trained to handle every aspect of pool installation, from design to execution. They can:

Conduct accurate site assessments.

Recommend the best pool type (in-ground, fiberglass, concrete, etc.) for your needs.

Handle unexpected challenges, such as poor soil conditions or utility line conflicts.

2. Access to High-Quality Materials

Professional installers have access to premium materials and equipment that may not be available to the average homeowner. This ensures your pool will be durable, long-lasting, and visually stunning.

3. Compliance With Local Laws and Regulations

Navigating permits and zoning laws can be overwhelming. Professionals are well-versed in local codes and can handle the paperwork for you, ensuring that your pool complies with all regulations.

4. Proper Groundwork and Structural Integrity

Expert installers will:

Conduct soil testing to ensure the ground is stable.

Level and reinforce the pool base properly.

Use advanced techniques to prevent future issues, such as cracking or shifting.

How to Choose the Right Professional Pool Installer

When selecting a pool installer, look for the following qualities:

Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record and positive reviews.

Licensing and Insurance: Verify that they are licensed and insured to protect against accidents.

Portfolio: Ask to see examples of their previous work.

Transparency: Ensure they provide clear contracts and estimates.

Customer Service: Choose a company that communicates well and prioritizes your satisfaction.

If you’re located in the Houston area, we recommend Ocean Blue Pools, as they have been servicing the area for a while and have a stellar reputation when it comes to beautiful pool installations.

Want a Large Pool in Your Yard? Hire the Pros!

While installing a large pool might seem like an exciting DIY project, the risks and complexities involved can lead to costly mistakes. By hiring professionals, you’re investing in a stress-free process and a high-quality pool that will bring joy for years to come.

Ready to bring your pool dreams to life? Contact a trusted pool installation company like Ocean Blue Pools today and take the first step toward creating your perfect backyard retreat!

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This rare piece of ancient craftsmanship was accidentally discovered by archaeologists investigating a site listed for construction in Rollsbo, Sweden and archaeologist Gisela Ängeby, speaking to the Göteborgs-Posten, said the carved penis was initially thought to be a paving stone. It was only after the rocks were excavated the researchers saw something that “deviated from everything else” - a 2 foot (52 centimeter) long stone shaped like a penis.

The artifact was found amidst the debris near Torre de Meira, a 14th-15th century tower that fell victim to peasant uprisings against the nobility, resulting in its destruction in 1476 during the Irmandiño War in Spain. This conflict emerged as a result of the peasants and citizens rebelling against the oppressive feudal system, leading to the destruction of approximately 130 castles, towers, and fortresses, reports Art News.

According to Peña from the Árbore Arqueoloxía team, sharpening stones are commonly discovered at medieval sites, and can have different forms. The archaeologists determined the function of the stone penis by observing a distinct pattern of wear on one side of the phallic whetstone.

the best part about studying the ancient world is that, every once in a while, a new discovery will bring with it an amazing article title like this